The Pale Queen

Gr 3-7–Prepare to be whisked away to a world of wonder, with a touch of darkness and folklore. Small-town girl Agatha craves astronomy studies, but a mysterious Lady with a wolfish gaze magically forces her into guarding a mystical plant. Agatha juggles a creepy minion, a pig-boy admirer, and a newfound friend with a thirst for knowledge. Can she break free from the Lady’s magic and reach the university with her new friend, or will the darkness drag her back? The story is reminiscent of classic fairy tales, but with a refreshing twist and enchanting characters. Aldridge’s signature watercolor style is simply stunning. The characters and settings burst with life, and readers can practically feel the mist clinging to the mysterious hills. The artwork is so captivating, anyone could get lost in it for hours, even without the story. Agatha’s journey is one of growth and self-discovery, making this a truly empowering read.